Sermons on Discernment
You Have Heard it Said
What happens when we come back to familiar Bible stories with fresh eyes? In this message, Chaplain Annie Owens reminds us that even the “old, old story” can surprise us with new meaning. From biblical unicorns and Balaam’s talking donkey to the woman at the well, she explores how our own assumptions and experiences shape the way we read Scripture. This sermon is an invitation to stay curious, keep asking questions, and discover how God’s Word continues to speak in…
The Voice You Didn’t Expect
Speaking from the book of Numbers 22:21-35, Minister Lea Gilmore shares the story of Balaam and his donkey, reminding us that God is not limited in how They speak. God can use unexpected voices to correct us, protect us, and redirect us. The question is whether we are humble enough to listen.
I Think That I will Never See a Poem as Lovely as a Tree
This sermon by Chaplain Annie Owens reflects on the spiritual and symbolic significance of trees, weaving together poetry, scripture, personal stories, and science. Through themes of resilience and interconnectedness—and the powerful metaphor of the axe—it invites deeper awareness and discernment. Ultimately, it calls us to rooted faith, critical thinking, and wise stewardship in a complex world.
Keep Your Eyes Open and Stay Alert
Pastor Ron emphasizes the importance of spiritual vigilance, hope, and readiness for the coming of Jesus Christ, while also highlighting lessons from scripture and contemporary challenges faced by our congregation.
The Gift of Curiosity – Part II
The idea of a couple as old as Elizabeth having a child provoked amazement and disbelief from Zechariah, while or the idea of a young virgin becoming pregnant provoked a different reaction from Mary: CURIOSITY. Doubt and disbelief will ultimately diminish our faith in God, while Godly curiosity and wonder will feed and nurture our faith.
The Gift of Curiosity – Part I
John the Baptist provoked a response from the Jewish crowds who came to him hoping to draw nearer to God under the presumption that they were already in right-relationship with God because of their ancestor Abraham. John the Baptist provokes curiosity in the hearts of people, reminding them of that in order to be in right relationship with God, you must be in right-relationship with the children of God. The crowds were given a gift of curiosity provoking a curious…
Allowing God’s Callings to Take Root in Us
The Parable of the Sower is interpreted in the Gospel of Mark as a parable about different kinds of people receiving the Gospel differently. Pastor Tom suggests we think of the sower’s seed as the many ways God calls us in our lives, and the different soil as all being inside each of us. Which of God’s callings are finding the good soil in you right now. Which seeds are preparing you to receive their calling in the future? –…